What is Zone of Enders, Hideo Kojima’s Classic Mech Franchise?
Jonathan Dubinski 
Key Takeaways
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- The Zone of the Enders series, developed by Hideo Kojima and Konami, revolves around giant robot combat in space, with the main games being Zone of the Enders (2001) and its sequel Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner (2002).
- In this future setting, humanity has established colonies on Mars and around Jupiter, and the discovery of Metatron, a powerful mineral found on Jupiters moon Callisto, plays a significant role in the series narrative.
- The series features various media expansions, including an anime series, original video animation, and a Game Boy Advance title, all released in 2001.
- In 2011, Konami announced an HD rerelease of both Zone of Enders and The 2nd Runner, which included several upgrades and a demo for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance. Additionally, Hideo Kojima announced that development had commenced on a new Zone of Enders series, with further developments showcased at Tokyo Game Show 2017.
Hideo Kojima’s Space-Age Mech Battles in Zone of Enders Series
The Zone of the Enders series, developed by Hideo Kojima and Konami, centers on giant robot combat in space, featuring mechs known as Orbital Frames. The first game, Zone of the Enders, was released for PlayStation 2 in March 2001. Its sequel, Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner, launched on the same platform in March 2002. Both titles received a high-definition remaster in 2012, released as the Zone of the Enders HD Collection for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The franchise also expanded with other media in 2001: the Game Boy Advance title Zone of Enders: The Fist of Mars, the original video animation Zone of Enders: 2167 Idolo (which premiered in March), and the 26-episode anime series Zone of Enders: Dolores, I, broadcast from April to September.
By the late 22nd century, humanity has established colonies on Mars and around Jupiter. Key developments in this era include the LEV, a multipurpose work mecha utilized for both industry and warfare, and the discovery of Metatron, a powerful mineral found on Jupiter’s moon Callisto. Earth’s authorities begin to perceive Martians and Jovians as “Enders,” imposing strict laws, taxes, and exploration limits on them. This oppression sparks rebellions on Mars, most notably by the organization Bahram. Bahram acquires a new weapon: the Orbital Frame, a super-advanced mecha heavily reliant on Metatron technology, which becomes pivotal to Earth’s future. The series’ narrative begins with Zone of the Enders (2001), where Jupiter colonist Leo Stenbuck accidentally becomes the pilot of the Orbital Frame Jehuty. In a separate storyline, Zone of Enders: The Fist of Mars (2001) for Game Boy Advance features a conspiracy surrounding the construction of Earth’s orbital structures. Its protagonist, Cage Midwell, joins forces with BIS, a resistance group.
Zone of Enders: The 2nd Runner – Dingo vs. Bahram Army on Aumaan
The narrative of Zone of Enders: The 2nd Runner advances to 2003. Following the events of the first game, new pilot Dingo Egret encounters Jehuty on Callisto. He then travels to Aumaan, a superweapon, to confront Colonel Nohman of the Bahram Army, who pilots Anubis, Jehuty’s sister ship.
Enhanced Zone of Enders HD Collection and Mars Debut, Plus New Project Announcement
At E3 2011, Konami announced the Zone of Enders HD Collection, an HD rerelease of both Zone of Enders and The 2nd Runner for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Released in 2012, this collection featured several upgrades: revamped interfaces for high-definition resolutions, new art designs, trophy and achievement support, enhanced audio, vibration support, and a new opening animation by Sunrise, set to the theme music “Beyond the Bounds” for The 2nd Runner. The HD Collection notably included a demo for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, mirroring the Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty demo that accompanied the original Zone of Enders game. While a PlayStation Vita version was planned, it was ultimately canceled. In May 2012, the Japanese release date for the HD Collection was set for October 25th. Around the same time, Hideo Kojima announced that development had commenced on a new Zone of Enders series. Tokyo Game Show 2017 revealed further developments, showcasing Zone of Enders: The 2nd Runner – MARS. This enhanced version featured improved graphics, 4K resolution support, VR headset compatibility, new sound design, and next-generation surround sound.
In Case You Missed It
For fans of the Silent Hill series and gaming enthusiasts alike, Carlos Mendoza’s latest piece on Players For Life is a must-read. Published on February 25, 2025, “After Silent Hill 2 Remake, Konami Replaces Trust in Bloober Team for New Game” delves into the exciting new collaboration between Konami and Bloober Team following the massive success of Silent Hill 2’s remake. While details are still under wraps, the potential for a groundbreaking new project is high, whether it’s a remake, remaster, or something entirely fresh from lesser-known Konami franchises. Dive into the article to see how this partnership aims to set a new standard in gaming After Silent Hill 2 Remake, Konami Replaces Trust in Bloober Team for New Game.
About the Author
Sophie Laurent 
Bruno Pferd 
Carlos Mendoza 
